Fantasy enthusiasts, get ready to level up your lexicon with our latest compilation of fantasy slang. Whether you’re a seasoned dungeon master or a newbie adventurer, this list is sure to enhance your gaming experience and immerse you in the magical world of fantasy like never before. Join us as we unravel the mysteries of the realm and uncover the hidden gems of fantasy jargon.
Click above to generate some slangs
1. D&D
A popular tabletop role-playing game where players create characters and embark on adventures in a fantasy setting. D&D is known for its use of dice to determine the outcomes of actions and its emphasis on storytelling and imagination.
- For example, “I’m hosting a D&D campaign this weekend. Want to join?”
- A player might say, “My D&D character is a half-elf rogue with a tragic backstory.”
- In a discussion about different RPG systems, someone might ask, “How does D&D compare to other tabletop games?”
2. RPG
A genre of games where players assume the roles of characters in a fictional world and engage in storytelling and decision-making. RPGs can take various forms, including tabletop games, video games, and live-action role-playing (LARP).
- For instance, “I love playing RPGs because they allow me to immerse myself in a different world.”
- A gamer might say, “I’ve been playing this new RPG and it has an amazing character customization system.”
- In a discussion about RPG mechanics, someone might ask, “What’s your favorite RPG class to play as?”
3. LARP
A form of role-playing where participants physically act out their characters’ actions and engage in interactive storytelling. LARP often takes place in outdoor settings and involves costumes, props, and combat simulations.
- For example, “I’m going to a LARP event this weekend. I’ll be playing a warrior.”
- A LARPer might say, “LARPing allows me to fully embody my character and experience the fantasy world in a more immersive way.”
- In a discussion about LARP combat, someone might ask, “What safety precautions are taken during LARP battles?”
4. Min-Maxing
Min-maxing refers to the practice of maximizing the strengths and minimizing the weaknesses of a character or build in a game. It involves carefully selecting abilities, skills, or attributes to create the most powerful character possible.
- For example, a player might focus on increasing their character’s damage output while neglecting other areas like defense or utility.
- In a discussion about character building strategies, someone might say, “Min-maxing can be an effective way to create a specialized character, but it can also lead to unbalanced gameplay.”
- A player might ask for advice on a forum, saying, “I’m trying to min-max my rogue for maximum critical hit damage. Any tips?”
5. Homebrew
Homebrew refers to content created by players that is not part of the official game rules or materials. It can include new rules, classes, races, items, or settings that are added to enhance or customize the gaming experience.
- For instance, a group of players might create their own homebrew campaign setting with unique lore and rules.
- In a discussion about game modifications, a player might say, “I love using homebrew classes to add more variety to my campaigns.”
- Someone might share their homebrew content on a forum, saying, “Check out my homebrew race, the Vulpines. I think they add an interesting dynamic to the game.”
6. Powergamer
A powergamer is a player who focuses on maximizing their character’s power and effectiveness in a game. They often prioritize winning or being the strongest over other aspects of gameplay, such as role-playing or storytelling.
- For example, a powergamer might choose abilities or skills solely based on their combat effectiveness, disregarding any narrative or thematic considerations.
- In a discussion about different playstyles, someone might say, “Powergamers can sometimes dominate combat encounters, but they may not contribute as much to the overall story.”
- A player might ask for advice on dealing with powergamers, saying, “How can I encourage my powergamer friend to focus more on role-playing and character development?”
7. Tabletop
Tabletop refers to role-playing games that are played with physical materials, such as dice, character sheets, and miniatures, typically on a tabletop surface. These games often involve collaborative storytelling and are played in-person with a group of friends.
- For instance, Dungeons & Dragons is a popular tabletop role-playing game.
- In a discussion about different types of games, someone might say, “I prefer tabletop RPGs over video games because of the social interaction and creative freedom.”
- A player might invite others to join their tabletop campaign, saying, “Looking for players for a weekly tabletop game. Beginners welcome!”
8. Campaign
A campaign refers to a series of connected game sessions or adventures that form a larger narrative. It often involves a group of players working together to overcome challenges, solve mysteries, or achieve specific goals within the game.
- For example, a Dungeon Master might create a campaign where the players must save a kingdom from an evil sorcerer.
- In a discussion about campaign design, someone might say, “I love creating intricate storylines and plot twists for my players to uncover.”
- A player might share their campaign experience, saying, “We just finished a year-long campaign that had us traveling to different dimensions. It was epic!”
9. GM
The Game Master is the person who runs and oversees a tabletop role-playing game. They are responsible for creating and narrating the game world, controlling non-player characters (NPCs), and enforcing the rules of the game.
- For example, a player might ask, “Can I talk to the GM about my character’s backstory?”
- During a game session, the GM might describe a scene by saying, “You enter a dark and mysterious cave.”
- If a player encounters a challenging situation, they might say, “I hope the GM gives us a hint on how to proceed.”
10. PC
A player character refers to the fictional character that a player controls in a tabletop role-playing game. The player takes on the role of their character and makes decisions and actions on their behalf.
- For instance, a player might say, “My PC is a brave warrior with a tragic past.”
- During a game session, a player might say, “My PC wants to search for clues in the library.”
- When discussing character development, a player might ask, “How can I make my PC more interesting and unique?”
11. NPC
A non-player character is a fictional character controlled by the Game Master in a tabletop role-playing game. NPCs are used to populate the game world and interact with the player characters.
- For example, the GM might introduce an NPC by saying, “You encounter a friendly innkeeper behind the counter.”
- During a game session, a player might ask the GM, “Can I talk to the NPC and ask for directions?”
- If an NPC provides important information, a player might say, “I thank the NPC for their help.”
12. TTRPG
TTRPG is an acronym for tabletop role-playing game. It refers to a type of game where players assume the roles of fictional characters and collaboratively create and navigate a story. These games are usually played with pen, paper, dice, and rulebooks.
- For instance, a player might say, “I love playing TTRPGs because they allow for endless creativity.”
- When discussing different TTRPG systems, a player might ask, “Which TTRPG do you recommend for beginners?”
- If someone is new to TTRPGs, they might say, “I’m excited to try my first tabletop role-playing game.”
13. Roll20
Roll20 is an online platform that allows players to play tabletop role-playing games remotely. It provides tools for creating virtual game boards, rolling dice, and communicating with other players. It eliminates the need for players to be physically present in the same location.
- For example, someone might say, “We use Roll20 to play with friends who live in different states.”
- When discussing online game sessions, a player might ask, “Are we using Roll20 for tonight’s session?”
- If someone is new to Roll20, they might say, “I’m still learning how to navigate the Roll20 interface.”
14. Fantastique
Fantastique refers to a genre of fantasy that is characterized by its fantastical elements and imaginative storytelling. It often incorporates elements of magic, mythical creatures, and supernatural phenomena.
- For example, a fan of fantastique might say, “I love reading books that transport me to magical worlds.”
- In a discussion about fantastique literature, someone might mention, “Fantastique stories often blur the line between reality and imagination.”
- A movie enthusiast might comment, “The special effects in that fantastique film were truly mind-blowing.”
15. Wuxia fantasy
Wuxia fantasy is a subgenre of fantasy that originated in Chinese literature and is characterized by its focus on martial arts and chivalry. It often features heroes with exceptional martial arts skills and explores themes of honor, loyalty, and personal growth.
- For instance, a fan of wuxia fantasy might say, “I enjoy watching movies that showcase breathtaking martial arts choreography.”
- In a discussion about wuxia literature, someone might recommend, “If you’re interested in wuxia fantasy, you should check out ‘The Condor Trilogy’.”
- A gamer might comment, “I love playing video games that immerse me in the world of wuxia fantasy.”
16. Chivalric romance
Chivalric romance refers to a genre of fantasy literature that focuses on the adventures of knights and their romantic pursuits. It often includes elements of chivalry, courtly love, and quests for honor and glory.
- For example, a fan of chivalric romance might say, “I enjoy reading stories about knights and their quests for love and honor.”
- In a discussion about chivalric romance novels, someone might recommend, “If you’re into chivalric romance, you should read ‘Le Morte d’Arthur’.”
- A literature enthusiast might comment, “Chivalric romance often portrays idealized versions of knights and their code of conduct.”
17. Grimdark
Grimdark is a subgenre of fantasy that is characterized by its dark and gritty tone, morally ambiguous characters, and bleak settings. It often explores themes of violence, power struggles, and the darker aspects of human nature.
- For instance, a fan of grimdark might say, “I enjoy reading fantasy novels that challenge traditional notions of heroism.”
- In a discussion about grimdark literature, someone might mention, “Grimdark fantasy often subverts fantasy tropes and embraces a more realistic and gritty approach.”
- A gamer might comment, “The video game series ‘The Witcher’ is a great example of grimdark storytelling.”
18. Historical Fantasy
Historical fantasy is a genre of fantasy that incorporates elements of real-world history into its storytelling. It often takes place in a specific historical period or uses historical events as a backdrop for its fantastical elements.
- For example, a fan of historical fantasy might say, “I love reading books that blend historical accuracy with magical elements.”
- In a discussion about historical fantasy novels, someone might recommend, “If you’re interested in historical fantasy, you should check out ‘Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell’.”
- A movie enthusiast might comment, “The movie ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ combines historical settings with fantasy elements to create an exciting adventure.”